New Solutions Seek To Bring Cryptocurrencies Closer To Mainstream

This past week, a leading operator of global exchanges, clearing houses, data and listing services announced that it has partnered with a multinational technology company, one of the world's largest and most well-known coffeehouse chains, and a major global management consulting firm to launch a new cryptocurrency platform. The new platform will develop open technology to enable consumers and institutions to more easily buy, sell, store and spend cryptocurrencies. The ecosystem created by the new platform is expected to include federally regulated markets as well as merchant and consumer applications. Subject to U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission review and approval, the new platform plans to launch in November with a one-day bitcoin futures contract that will be physically delivered, meaning owners will receive bitcoin, not cash, upon expiration of the contract. The coffeehouse chain, as the flagship retailer, will leverage the platform to give consumers the